Manufacturing Manager

ERMCO-ECI; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

ERMCO in Athens, GA is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Operations Manager to oversee plant operations, including fabrication and core manufacturing, and lead Area Managers. You will drive productivity, quality, and safety across all shifts while promoting ERMCO’s lean manufacturing initiatives.

The role requires 5–10 years of progressive manufacturing leadership, a bachelor’s degree or military service, and strong experience with Lean, Six Sigma, and ERP systems like Infor LN.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• 5–10 years of progressive leadership in manufacturing
• Lean/Six Sigma and 5S experience
• Strong communication and data-driven decision making

Responsibilities

• Oversee all plant operations including fabrication and core manufacturing
• Lead Area Managers and cross-functional teams
• Drive productivity, quality, safety, and cost targets
• Implement lean initiatives and 5S improvements
• Manage budgeting and capital projects
• Collaborate with Training, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Engineering

Skills

Leadership

Lean/Six Sigma

Communication

Data-driven

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Military service (4+ years)

Tools

Infor LN

Job description

About ERMCO

Electric Research and Manufacturing Cooperative, Inc. (ERMCO) is the leading manufacturer of distribution transformers and engineered electrical solutions, serving electric utilities, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and industrial customers across North America. Headquartered in Dyersburg, Tenn., ERMCO delivers reliable, high-quality products that power homes, businesses, and communities across North America.

Overview

About ERMCO

Electric Research and Manufacturing Cooperative, Inc. (ERMCO) is the leading manufacturer of distribution transformers and engineered electrical solutions, serving electric utilities, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and industrial customers across North America. Headquartered in Dyersburg, Tenn., ERMCO delivers reliable, high-quality products that power homes, businesses, and communities across North America.

With our commitment to safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, ERMCO is at the forefront of supporting grid modernization and energy transition. Our vertically integrated operations, customer-focused culture, and investment in people and technology make ERMCO the Most Valued Partner for delivering resilient, sustainable power infrastructure for the future.

With our commitment to safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, ERMCO is at the forefront of supporting grid modernization and energy transition. Our vertically integrated operations, customer-focused culture, and investment in people and technology make ERMCO the Most Valued Partner for delivering resilient, sustainable power infrastructure for the future.

Job Summary

This role is responsible for overseeing all areas of plant operations, including fabrication, core manufacturing, and leadership of Area Managers. They will develop and implement strategies to increase productivity, ensure product quality, and promote safety throughout the facility. The Manufacturing Manager is responsible for all three shifts. A successful candidate will have extensive management experience, a strong background in manufacturing, and exceptional leadership skills.

This position is located in Athens, GA. Relocation assistance will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate daily activities for production departments to meet established performance targets, including safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Build and lead high-performing work teams that monitor and own their KPIs.
• Responsible for hiring, performance management, workforce planning, and employee development.
• Regularly communicate operating plans, priorities, and KPIs to team members to drive engagement and accountability.
• Collaborate closely with departments such as Training, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Engineering to ensure alignment and operational efficiency.
• Use Infor LN and other systems to track and analyze production performance data, identify trends, and implement data-driven improvements.
• Promote and model ERMCO’s safety-first culture; ensure that safety procedures are followed and incidents are promptly addressed.
• Champion lean manufacturing initiatives, including 5S, visual management, standard work, and Kaizen events.
• Partner with HR and Training to assess manpower needs, support recruitment and onboarding, and ensure employees are fully trained and cross-functional.
• Responsible for hiring, performance management, workforce planning, and employee development.
• Ownership of manufacturing cost performance, labor efficiency, and resource utilization.
• Provide timely feedback, coaching, and corrective action when necessary; ensure consistent application of ERMCO policies and procedures.
• Manage department-level budgetary goals and assist in the development of annual plant operating budgets.
• Participation in capital planning and execution of improvement projects.
• Support ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 compliance efforts, ensuring consistent application of quality and environmental standards across all shifts.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, specialized manufacturing training, or minimum of 4 years of military service.
• 5–10 years of progressive leadership experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in heavy industrial or electrical product assembly.

Skills And Attributes

• Proven leadership with the ability to engage, motivate, and develop individuals and teams.
• Strong understanding of Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills using data, logic, and creativity.
• Excellent communication skills—both verbal and written—and the ability to effectively communicate across all levels of the organization.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and familiar with ERP systems, especially Infor LN or similar platforms.
• Ability to foster a positive working environment and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including unionized employees if applicable.

Let's Build the Future Together

At ERMCO, we are transforming the power industry through operational excellence, innovation, and teamwork. As Operations Manager, you'll play a key role in driving performance and shaping a workplace where safety, quality, and growth are at the core of everything we do.

Join ERMCO and TRANSFORM your career!

Job Locations

US-GA-Athens